International Development

Drowning claims an estimated 372,000 lives around the world each year, over one-third of which are children. This is a conservative estimate – the actual number is likely to be much higher. More than 90% of these drownings happen in low- and middle-income countries.

Despite the scale of the problem, it is barely recognised – a silent epidemic. It’s hard to believe that this is not yet a global priority. We are working to change that.

Working in partnership with others, we are expanding our international work to provide communities with the knowledge, equipment and skills to try to reduce this staggering loss of life.

Where we are working

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Bangladesh

Asia

Bangladesh has one of the highest drowning rates in the world. Drowning is a leading killer of children in this country, claiming around 18,000 lives a year.

Tanzania

The Gambia

Africa

The Gambia is one of the poorest countries in the world, yet it has a big international tourism market. There are drownings in two major groups: local children and fishermen, and local and international tourists.